Extreme Networks Debuts SDN 2.0 Architecture

LAS VEGAS. Software Defined Networking (SDN) efforts at Extreme Networks are now entering a new era. At the Interop conference here, Extreme announced its new SDN 2.0 effort, which combines existing products with new capabilities and integrations.

One of the models is based on an Open Northbound API with predefined 3rd party products that are already supported and where Extreme already has several customers deployed. The other model is based on a Southbound API inclusive of and beyond the open-source OpenFlow protocol.

With the new SDN 2.0 announcement, Extreme has added support for several new vendors' products that include: vSphere 5.5 support, McAfee ePO, LightSpeed and Fibrelink Mass360. Kafel said that the new vendor integrations come on top of over 25 that were already available.

The SDN 2.0 approach is not limited to a specific subset of Extreme's switches, either. Kafel explained that all Extreme switches are part of the architecture, but depending on the switch model, only deployment model one or model two may be available. Both can be deployed in the network or on a network and application provisioning platform.

The Extreme Networks Purview analytics solution is also being integrated into the overall SDN architecture as well. Kafel noted that Purview was initially announced February 4th.

"It is now integrated into our Software Defined Architecture, so customers can optionally deploy Purview as a standalone or as part of their overall software management and SDN, on either Enterasys or Extreme switches," Kafel said.

Extreme Networks acquired Enterasys Networks in September of 2013 for $180 million.

While the SDN 2.0 approach builds on some existing Extreme Networks efforts, others have been left behind.

In April of 2013, Extreme Networks announced that it would be building a new line of switching gear called "Slalom," leveraging Big Switch Switchlight SDN technology.

"Big Switch changed direction with a wholly new strategy and CEO since that time," Kafel said. "Slalom is not supported, not shipping."

Sean Michael Kerner is a senior editor at EnterpriseNetworkingPlanet and InternetNews.com. Follow him on Twitter @TechJournalist